POLE POSITION

TEST DRIVE

WORDS Rachael Reid PHOTOS Carolyn Ryan

Her Supercar Life, Rachael Reid, takes the brand-new MercedesBenz GLB compact SUV for a spin.

Sometimes the best things in life come in smaller packages. And it’s true, the size of something doesn’t always indicate its value.

Rather than go bigger and more bolder to align with current trends surrounding the SUV market (oversized tyres and grunt are making waves in 2021), Mercedes-Benz opts for all class and style in the brand-new compact GLB 200 SUV.

The GLB 200 is a 1.3L economical SUV that works smarter not harder to make its mark on the road.

Despite its compact look and sporty profile, it’s surprisingly spacious on the inside, making it a perfect option for an urban daily driver.

After all, nothing makes driving in a busy setting easier than with a vehicle equipped to glide effortlessly between traffic. Better yet, the GLB 200 offers a reliable, practical and family-friendly transporter and there is no doubt the kids will be riding in style.

The vehicle provides a stable yet solid driver feel with a more sporting level of performance when using the MBUX drive programs, which gives this little SUV a diversity of character.

It is silky smooth to drive and very comfortable, with transmission that easily adapts to your driving style and becomes sharper over time.

The GLB is a seven-seater with a 2 + 3 + 2 seating arrangement with the rear seats featuring their own cupholders and USB ports making it perfect for longer trips with the rugrats in tow.

But it’s also a unique driving experience you can enjoy for yourself on long cruises down the coast, while still having the practical layout for family excursions.

The new MBUX system gives you information overload, as Mercedes-Benz are never one to limit you on an array of exciting features. However, once personalised it is easy to get your head around and delivers everything you could possibly want from a car’s user experience system.

As with any Mercedes-Benz offering, no corners have been cut in relation to impeccable interior design and quality.

As we turn the page on trends around having a bigger beast on the road, I think it’s time to pay a little respect where its due to the little guy.

Ultimately, functionality, state-of-the-art safety and practicality is where it’s at, and you really can’t look past Mercedes-Benz’ seven seater GLB 200 compact SUV for a new vehicle that ticks a lot of boxes.

Her Supercar Life

Rachael Reid is an exotic car enthusiast, ex-race car driver and mum of three. Her Instagram page, @hersupercarlife, is all about empowering female luxury car ownership.